We praise the Lord for a safe return home on June 11! The final weeks of our furlough were a whirlwind of traveling, reporting, preaching, packing, and saying “see you later” to family and friends.
After the kids finished school, we headed to southern Illinois to visit Jamie’s family. I was blessed with the opportunity to preach and present at a new church in southern Missouri. From there, we traveled to St. Louis to return our car to Righteous Rides—praise the Lord for their wonderful ministry and the vehicle they provided.
Our travels then took us to Burlington, IA, where we enjoyed sweet fellowship with Pastor Hall and Heritage Baptist Church. Afterward, we headed to Kyte River Revival Campgrounds, where I preached to about 160 first through sixth graders. It was a joy to see several supporting pastors and longtime friends. Lainey and Clayton participated as campers, and it was a joy to watch the Lord work in their hearts along with the other young people.
On our final Sunday, our assistant pastor and his wife joined us at our home church. It was wonderful to reunite after so much time apart. They completed a week of missions training in Indiana and will soon begin deputation to return to Brazil as church planters.
Our final service with our home church was bittersweet. Our church family and pastor were a tremendous blessing throughout our furlough—we came away strengthened, encouraged, and recharged. It’s hard to believe how quickly ten months passed!
We arrived in Brazil on June 11 and were warmly welcomed by Pastor Diego, Raquel, and Ciro. Praise the Lord, all our luggage arrived safely, and the trip was one of the smoothest we’ve had. We rejoiced to rekindle fellowship with our fellow missionaries and church family, who surprised us with a welcome as only Brazilians can! It was wonderful to meet new faces and witness how the Lord continues His work in Pindamonhangaba.
We’re deeply grateful for Pastor Jonata, Pastor Diego, and Brother Fernando, who worked so faithfully in our absence to keep the ministry at Victory Baptist Church going forward. It’s incredible to see how the Lord continues His work: saving souls and growing His people. What a privilege to be part of the greatest work in the world!
As we settle back in, we ask for your prayers, especially for an opportunity this Sunday to witness again to Ciro and Luciano. We’ve mentioned these men before; both remain unsaved while their wives continue praying and sharing the Gospel with them. Please pray for their salvation and that God would open their hearts to their greatest need.
Our hearts are encouraged, and our hands are strengthened for the work ahead. We are confident God is far from finished with Victory Baptist Church, Pindamonhangaba, and Brazil. Thank you for your faithful prayers, financial support, and love for our family and ministry. We deeply value your partnership in the cause of Christ and regularly pray for you. May the Lord richly bless you for His honor and glory!
Keith, Jamie, Lainey, Clayton, and Silas Putnam | Philippians 2:16